I've got a pre-built NZXT PC that I've been using for about 1-2 years now, and it's struggling with new games. My budget for upgrades is between $500 and $1000. Here are my specs:
- CPU: i5-12600k
- Motherboard: GIGABYTE B760 DS3H AX DDR4
- Memory: TEAMGROUP Inc. (4x8 GB) DDR4-3200
- Storage: WD blue SN570 2TB SSD + Seagate BarraCuda 8TB HDD
- GPU: GIGABYTE NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 4060ti (8GB)
I'm not sure what piece of hardware I should upgrade first to improve my gaming experience.
4 Answers
With an i5-12600k and a 4060ti, you should still be able to play most new games pretty well, especially at 1080p. If you're having issues, check your game settings first. Also, ensure your monitor is connected to your GPU and not the motherboard. If everything seems okay there, it might be worth just upgrading your GPU for better performance without breaking the bank.
If your games are stored on your Seagate Barracuda HDD instead of your SSD, try moving them to the SSD. HDDs can slow down load times significantly, impacting performance. Also, reinstalling Windows might help if there are hidden software issues.
Honestly, your setup looks pretty solid for 1080p gaming. If you're playing at that resolution and still having trouble, you might just need to lower some game settings. And make sure all your drivers are up to date! If you've already done that, consider upgrading the GPU because that's usually the most impactful hardware upgrade for gaming.
Are you getting low FPS at any specific settings?
The 4060ti should be fine for many newer games. If you're still underperforming, it might relate to your overall setup or even game settings. Make sure you're getting optimal settings for your specific games.
What games are you trying to play? That might help pinpoint the issue.